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A systematic review and meta-analysis (OpenUrlFREE Full Text) has confirmed the value of adding ipratropium bromide to inhaled β2 agonist treatment for children and adults with acute asthma. Thirty-two randomised controlled trials (16 in children and adolescents) were analysed. The addition of ipratropium bromide reduced hospital admissions by 27% in children and by 32% in adults. It also resulted in significant improvements in spirometric measures 60–120 minutes after the last dose in both age groups.
An Italian questionnaire survey (OpenUrlAbstract/FREE Full Text) has confirmed an association between exposure to mould or damp in the home during infancy and later respiratory symptoms. Among younger children (mean age 7 years) a history of such exposure was associated with a significant 80% increase in risk of asthma. Among older children (mean age 13 years) there was a significant 90% increase. There were similar findings for rhinoconjunctivitis in the younger group and wheeze in the older group. In general, current exposure to mould or damp was less strongly related to respiratory symptoms.
Children who receive radiotherapy to the thyroid area for treatment of malignancy (Hodgkin’s lymphoma, acute leukaemia, brain tumours, neuroblastoma, or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) are at increased risk of subsequent thyroid cancer over the next 20 years. In a nested case control study based on …